Lock Your Car, Take Your Keys: Wilton Police Warn Thefts Are On Rise

WILTON, CT — One quarter of the way through the year, the town is on pace to double the number of cars stolen over 2023's numbers.

According to the Wilton Police Department, eight cars have been taken from residential driveways and commercial business lots since the start of January. A total of 16 cars were stolen in all of 2023.

Most of the thefts share a startling common theme: the keys were left in the vehicles, and the vehicles were not locked.

"We have seen a trend throughout the State of car thieves stealing cars that are left idling and unattended at locations such as gas stations," police officials posted on social media. "Please be mindful of this. Any time a car is left unattended it should be locked and secured with the keys removed."

Police advise residents who believe they have been the victim of any crime to report the incident swiftly, ensuring prompt officer response and the gathering of actionable evidence.